William Robert Brewer

William Robert Brewer, 94, a longtime resident of Van Buren County, passed from this life, on June 9, 2019, at his home in Franklin, Tennessee.

He was born in Cumberland County, on May 25, 1925.

A World War II veteran, Mr. Brewer served with the Thunderbirds of the 179th Infantry Regiment during the Italian campaign. He fought in ground combat throughout Africa, France, and Italy. He was captured by German troops and forced to march 11 days before escaping and reuniting with American troops. He received the Purple Heart for wounds suffered while fighting in France during active combat. His battle scars serve as testament to a commitment of love for country and sacrifice, the same principles evident to all who knew him throughout his life. Mr. Brewer was a lifetime member of the Disabled American Veterans.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Mildred Pauline McBroom; parents, Belle and Luther Brewer, of Winesap; sisters, Eva, Garnet, Carmen, and Winnie Mabel; brothers, Ronald and Andrew; and his oldest son, Martin Henry.

Funeral service will be 1 p.m., June 13, 2019, at Hunter Funeral Home. Troy Squires will officiate. Interment with full military honors by the Veterans’ Honor Guard will follow in Thomas Springs Cemetery, in Winesap. The family will receive friends 11 a.m.-1 p.m., June 13, at the funeral home.

Pallbearers will be grandsons and great-grandsons: Jason, Noah, and Joshua Brewer, George and William Shinn, and Austin Squires.